Rural Living

Lethbridge County is a beautiful place to call home. The golden wheat fields and impressive coulees offer incredible views to those who are fortunate enough to reside here. Rural living comes with many benefits, but also some challenges compared to an urban setting. We have compiled some information to guide you through the ins and outs of living in Lethbridge County.

1. Agriculture is a major part of the local economy and industry. Lethbridge County has a large concentration of farms and livestock operations. Spring and summer bring calving and harvest, which may create more noise and activity (as well as odours) within the County. It is important to be aware of this and be prepared to adjust your daily activities if necessary. For example, large (and slow-moving) farming machinery will likely be on the roads during these times. Drive with caution and patience.

2. Herbicides are used within Lethbridge County. Controlling invasive weeds is a priority for farmers, who may apply herbicide either on the ground or from the air.

3. Know your property. Certain weeds and plants are considered invasive, or are harmful (even poisonous) to other plant life and animals. Lethbridge County enforces the Weed Control Act which requires landowners to control harmful weeds on their property. If you have questions about the Act or your responsibilities, please call the County’s Agricultural Services Department at (403) 328-5525.

4. Be mindful of livestock and wildlife. All animals, whether on a farm or not, can be dangerous. Do not feed wildlife and do not approach farm animals unless you have permission to do so from the property owner.

5. Emergency response services are primarily volunteer-based. Response times for emergency services cannot be guaranteed in Lethbridge County. Under some conditions you may find that emergency service response times are slower due to circumstances beyond the control of the provider. Travel distances, road and weather conditions, emergency call volumes and the availability of emergency service personnel can all affect emergency response times.

7. Be a good neighbour:
a. Drive with care on gravel roads. Dust is generated from excessive speed, which can affect the tranquility and health of your neighbours. Speeding and sudden breaking and accelerating can also affect the structural integrity of the gravel roads.
b. Keep an eye on your pets. Make sure your furry friends are allowed to roam only on your property. Many animals are injured or killed when they run onto roads, and animals found harassing livestock may be reported to Animal Control. Lethbridge County also has a Dog Control Bylaw which outlines regulations residents must comply with. View the Bylaw here: Bylaw # 1405
c. Know where your livestock are. It is your responsibility to keep your livestock contained within your property. Animals that escape from farms and ranches pose a hazard to drivers, other animals, and residents.